PARTNERSHIP SATISFACTION OF WOMEN WITH ACADEMIC CAREERS

The paper examines the level of partnership satisfaction of women working in academia. The main aim of the research was to examine the degree of partnership satisfaction and its aspects. Moreover the extent to which women were successful in balancing private and work-related aspects of their lives was explored. As far as the research design is concerned, a concurrent nested strategy was used with an emphasis on qualitative methodology (Cresswell, 2003). The main method of data collection were semi-structured interviews. The research sample consisted of 32 women aged between 30-52, who have been working in academia for a minimum of three years and who have been living in a stable relationship for at least 3 years. Partial research results show that despite the fact that the women perceive their family and personal relationships as important, work-related duties play a far more significant role and have an influence on their personal lives. According to the participants, the work-family conflict has its roots in changes in academia, gender discrimination, and from personal factors as well, which is demonstrated in family life by increased tiredness, a low level of inspiration and even a decreased level of relationship satisfaction. The attitude of the partner and his role are significant in relation to how women handle both work and their personal life This researched theme is highly relevant and the results of this study can be applied to women with demanding occupations in general, not only those working in academia. The study was made possible by direct support for specific university research which was awarded to UP in 2013 by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports.